Entertainment
New Continental Talents to Emerge Soon From BIC Art Master Africa 2019 Competition
Leading global stationery brand, BIC is organizing its first continent-wide art competition tagged, BIC Art Master Africa 2019. The competition, which aims to foster local creativity, invites African talents to create artwork using the BIC® Ball Pen as their medium.
This is not the first edition of the programme as the BIC Art Master competition was first held in South Africa in 2017 and 2018.
Following the success of the campaign in South Africa, the brand decided to expand the competition to include all African countries. Artists residing in Africa were given the opportunity to submit up to three pieces of art on the competition’s site, bicartmaster.com until the 31st of October, for a chance to be titled BIC Art Master Africa champion. The platform has been open for the public to vote for their favourite artwork during this entire month of November.
Yemi, Ojo, Country Business Development Manager revealed that BIC was originally founded on one hero product, BIC’s Cristal® ballpoint pen, that served as an essential tool for people everywhere. In his words “As we expanded our range of ballpoint pens, we saw consumers around the world redefine how they used our signature blue ink. BIC Art Master was born from our connection with art and creativity with the objective to create a platform that recognizes local talent around Africa.”
The competition will recognize two winners at a special award this December, including a ‘BIC Art Master Africa 2019’ winner and a ‘People’s Choice 2019’ prize winner. The competition’s champion will be selected by a panel of experts including Ghanaian artist and sculptor, Enam Bosokah; professor and designer, Hein Liebenberg; renowned artists and interior designer, Valerie Manouvrier; professional curator and art advisor, Herve Mikaeloff; and avid art enthusiast and collector and member of BIC’s founding family, Geoffroy Bich.
The winner will receive a USD 1,000 cash prize, a personalized digital gallery space, and a chance to be featured as part of BIC’s art collection, La BIC Collection. The ‘People’s Choice’ prize winner will be selected based on the highest number of votes received by the public and will be granted a cash prize of USD 500 as well as a BIC Artistry Kit.
BIC Art Master Africa 2019 will also look to recognize consumers who engage with the competition by selecting one ‘Lucky Voter’ of those that voted on the competition’s website and one ‘Lucky Influencer’ winner, of those that posted about the competition on social platforms using the #BICArtMaster hashtag. Both winners will be selected at random and will receive a prize worth USD 250 each.
BIC’s connection to art spans more than 60 years, as the brand has provided platforms for artists around the world find great inspiration in creating portraits, designs, sculptures, and installations from the brand’s iconic products. The brand regularly works with artists, designers, curators, and institutions around the world on creative projects and expositions. Last year, BIC hosted in Paris an unprecedented exhibition with 250 works by internationally recognized and upcoming artists, which captured the art community and took its audience on an immersive display.
BIC is a world leader in stationery, lighters and shavers. For more than 70 years, BIC has honored the tradition of providing high-quality, affordable products to consumers everywhere. Through this unwavering dedication BIC has become one of the most recognized brands and is a trademark registered worldwide for identifying BIC products which are sold in more than 160 countries around the world.
Entertainment
Social Media Buzz as South African Label Reportedly Signs Fast-Rising Nigerian Artist Oscar Bankz
Social Media Buzz as South African Label Reportedly Signs Fast-Rising Nigerian Artist Oscar Bankz
There are strong indications that fast-rising Nigerian singer and songwriter, Oscar Blonde Azzun, popularly known as Oscar Bankz, has secured a major music deal with South African entertainment company, Astra Luvian Music Worldwide Ltd.
Industry insiders say the move is part of the label’s growing plan to push Afrobeats deeper into the international market by investing in emerging African talents with strong commercial potential.
Sources close to the development revealed that the deal has already been finalized quietly, with preparations underway for Oscar Bankz’s first official project under the label, expected to drop later this summer.
The Cape Town-based company is reportedly putting a strong promotional structure behind the artist, with plans targeting audiences across Africa, Europe, and other international markets.
Music observers believe the partnership could become a major breakthrough moment for Oscar Bankz, whose sound and style have continued gaining attention among Afrobeats listeners.
Although full details of the agreement remain undisclosed, insiders within the entertainment space say Astra Luvian Music Worldwide Ltd sees Oscar Bankz as one of the promising new voices capable of making significant waves in the evolving Afrobeats movement.
Entertainment
Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration
Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Otunba Gbenga, popularly known as Leo Taiwo, will be celebrated for his 45-year journey in the music industry at a special event scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in Lagos.
The event, set to hold at the Radio Lagos Marquee Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, is expected to bring together friends, family, and associates to honour a career defined by longevity and consistent contribution to Nigeria’s Fuji music scene.
Though not widely in the public spotlight, Leo Taiwo is regarded within industry circles as a respected figure whose work has spanned decades. His role as a music producer and collaborator has positioned him among the quiet contributors who have supported the growth and continuity of Fuji music over the years.
The celebration is slated to begin at 2 p.m., with guests expected to observe a white dress code. Attendance will be by access card, with caps and gele serving as entry identifiers.
Fuji star King Sule Alao Malaika is billed to lead the music for the occasion, while popular hosts Ifankaleluyah and Tokunbo Marvins will anchor proceedings.
The choice of venue underscores the cultural relevance of the event. Radio Lagos has long been associated with the promotion of indigenous music, making it a fitting location for a milestone rooted in tradition and legacy.
Reaching 45 years in any creative industry is a notable achievement. In a genre that has evolved across generations, such longevity reflects both resilience and sustained relevance.
As preparations continue, the event is shaping up to be not just a celebration of one man’s journey, but also a moment to acknowledge the enduring community behind Fuji music.
Entertainment
BREAKING NEWS: Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy
*BREAKING NEWS
*Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy*
Lagos, Nigeria – In a stunning display of talent, leadership, and philanthropy, Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo has been crowned winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award. This remarkable achievement cements her status as a powerhouse in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Amb. Chelsea Nwodo, the newly crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026, has extended her heartfelt gratitude to all who supported her in this remarkable achievement.
“I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to announce that I have been crowned the winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award,” Amb. Nwodo said. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who voted for me, including my loving family members and TOSA to NAGA , I am honored to be part of this prestigious award and I appreciate the recognition.”
Amb. Nwodo, a multifaceted personality, has proven herself as an acclaimed actress, dedicated philanthropist, and visionary business leader. Her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.
As CEO of the Chelsea Nwodo Foundation, she drives transformative initiatives empowering women and children, fostering growth and opportunity. Her leadership skills extends to Chy-kas Travels and Tour, showcasing her entrepreneurial acumen.
Recently appointed Chief of Staff to the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Yakubu, Amb. Nwodo’s exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood is undeniable.
Amb. Nwodo’s philanthropy resonates deeply. Her impactful “Operation Feed 5000 Street Children” program, in partnership with Regal Connect Foundation-Ghana, delivered food, shelter, and skills training to vulnerable children in Ghana, attracting high-profile support.
Her NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 win celebrates not just her achievements but her dedication to uplifting others, making her a beacon of hope across industries. This recognition solidifies her position as a role model and influencer, inspiring a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs.
The NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA award is a testament to Amb. Nwodo’s hard work, talent, and commitment to excellence. Her win is a proud moment for Nigeria and the African continent, showcasing the best of Nollywood’s talent and philanthropy.
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